Iowa Hawkeyes are in the national spotlight once more, and this time it’s because three of their players have been named among the top college football players. Iowa was well-represented in Sporting News’ annual All-America teams, with Logan Jones, Kaden Wetjen, and Beau Stephens all receiving honors for their exceptional seasons in black and gold.
Logan Jones, a center on the First Team All-American, is at the forefront. That honor feels less like a surprise and more like confirmation of what has been clear all fall to anyone who has followed Iowa football closely this season. As the cornerstone of the Hawkeyes’ offensive line, Jones has established defenses, prevailed in trench battles, and provided a level of consistency that has allowed the offense to run smoothly every week. Although center is one of those positions that doesn’t always make headlines, its significance cannot be overstated. Jones has been the cool under pressure, and his selection to the First Team is a testament to the respect he has gained across the country.
Additionally, Jones may receive even more recognition. Jones would become a unanimous All-American if the Football Writers Association of America (FWAA) selects him as a First Team All-American when its list is made public tomorrow. That’s an uncommon accomplishment, only attained by players who so completely control their position that all major selectors concur. A unanimous All-American at center would be a significant statement about Jones and the Iowa system for a program that takes pride in its physical play and elite line development.
Kaden Wetjen, a nationally recognized punt returner, will be joining Jones on the First Team. Special teams excellence has long been part of Iowa’s identity, and Wetjen is the latest example of that tradition paying dividends. There was a feeling that something might happen each time he fielded a punt. Wetjen added vitality and unpredictability to one of the game’s most neglected stages, whether he was breaking free for a play that changed momentum or flipping field position with a decisive return. Punt returning is a dangerous profession that requires toughness, vision, and confidence, all of which Wetjen possessed. His First Team nod underscores how impactful he’s been in hidden-yardage situations that often decide close games.
Beau Stephens, who was selected to the Sporting News Second Team on the offensive line, completes Iowa’s trio of All-Americans. Even though Stephens did not make the First Team, his inclusion nevertheless says a lot about his season. Stephens had all three of the qualities needed for offensive line play: durability, technique, and dependability. Week after week, he lined up and went to work, helping set the tone for an Iowa offense that leaned heavily on physicality and discipline. Stephens’ selection to the Second Team All-American ranks him among the best in the country for his position and demonstrates the breadth of talent Iowa has up front.
When combined, these accolades show more than just individual achievement. They shed light on Iowa football’s identity. The Hawkeyes are respected even though they aren’t always showy. They produce linemen capable of competing with any player in the nation. They use special teams as a weapon. Additionally, they develop players who excel in the small details, frequently going unnoticed until the rest of the college football community takes notice.
Three Hawkeyes being named Sporting News All-Americans is a source of pride for Iowa supporters. It’s a testament to the many hours these players have dedicated to hard work during practice, film sessions, and game days. Furthermore, Logan Jones’s recognition might not be complete just yet because there is still a chance that he will be named a unanimous All-American. Regardless of the future, this trio has already solidified their position in Iowa football history, serving as a constant reminder that attention to detail is still important and rewarded.
